Fitting CS Rear shock absorbers?

[Tomedian]

I am having difficulty fitting my new Bilsteins to my '73 CS.

Once I locate the upper shock absorber in the bot of the car, the angle of the lower mounting bolt does not allow the shock absorber to easily slide onto the bolt. The inner sleave of the lower shoch absorber gets stuck on the thread of the assembly bolt.

Jacking/raising the trailing arm doesn't see to make any difference to the angle.

What is the secret to easy assembly or this a job with assistance of the hammer/mallet?

Thanks for any help.

Andy

 

[HB Chris]

A heavy mallet, it works!

 

[Stevehose]

I made a compressor out of a loop from the roll of soft metal stuff with holes in it and squeezed the shock closed:

Then it is easier to fit it on the peg and pound on with a soft BFH. Once it is on you slip the compressor off while aiming the shaft up the hole in the body and voila.

 

[Tomedian]

Thanks Steve and Chris, the compression of the shock is a good suggestion, the photo helps, I'll give it a go, much appreciated. Andy

 

[Mike Goble]

The metal strap with holes is called plumber's tape.

 

[Tomedian]

Thanks Mike

 

[heroszeros]

i had the same issue with my bilsteins..
once you get the tops mounted, you can put a larger screw driver through the bottom mount.
putting a little (little) leverage on the bushing and it should slide right in!
it worked great on both sides for me.

good luck-

 

[Tomedian]

Thanks again, will try and put all of the suggestions to good use!

 

[Tomedian]

Hi All - Seems my concern was ill placed, I found an 8mm socket placed on the inside of the shock gave me the leverage required to tease the lower assembly to the lower bolt assembly - so easy in hindsight! Thanks again.